The Effect of Blue Light Irradiation on Artificial Bilirubin Solution

Abstract

Hyperbilirubinemia is an accumulation of unconjugated bilirubin in the skins and mucous membrane of newborns. Phototherapy is often used to treat hyperbilirubinemia by using visible light. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of blue light irradiation on artificial bilirubin solution. The artificial bilirubin solution was prepared using methyl red powder and acetic acid. The blue light emitted from fluorescent light tube model 52 (Philips) were measured its spectrum and intensity, and then used to irradiate the artificial bilirubin solution with concentration of 5, 10, 15,20 and 30 mg/dl. The transmitted intensity of the solution before and after irradiation was measured using spectrophotometer. The result shows that the spectrum of the blue light emitted from the fluorescent tube light met the criteria to be used as phototherapy light source. The minimum required intensity is obtained at distance of 35 – 40 cm from the lamp. The effect of blue light irradiation on artificial bilirubin solution is obviously observed in a low solution concentration, indicated by a higher difference of the transmitted intensity of the solution before and after irradiation. A longer irradiation or a higher intensity is required for a higher concentration in order the phototherapy to be effective.